Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen is excited about his options at 9 and 10 as the Joburgers return to South Africa from an unbeaten Vodacom United Rugby Championship tour.

The performances of flyhalf Gianni Lombard and scrumhalf Sanele Nohamba and their development as a combination during the three wins for the Lions overseas has especially delighted Van Rooyen.

This, given that ‘Cash’ can still bank on last season’s first-choice halfback duo Jordan Hendrikse and Morne van den Berg to make an impact.

Speaking after the Lions defied the odds to beat Edinburgh 22-19 on Friday, Van Rooyen told media: “The more you play together the more that combination will work and develop. Sanele and Gianni did play together for quite a number of decent minutes.

“We’re excited about that combination but excited about having Jordan or Krappie [Van den Berg] to play together, or to come in and replace is good, healthy competition for us. We’re really excited about the prospects of all four of them specifically.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Lions end tour unbeaten

The successful trip to Wales and Scotland has teed up the Lions nicely for a three-game home run, which starts with a visit from Ulster to Ellis Park on Saturday, before clashes against a rejuvenated Glasgow Warriors and defending champions DHL Stormers.

Van Rooyen said: “Did we expect to get three wins on tour? It was always part of the plan. The crucial victory on tour was probably the first one. Managed to sneak one against Ospreys, and that obviously increases the belief.

“So, I’m just really happy with the work rate, with the effort and the preparation from the guys … and I think it showed [against Edinburgh] with the defensive effort and the sharpness on attack … the desperateness with the kick-chase… I feel the team is in a great place.

“Some guys will call it character, some guys will call it culture, you can call it what you want but the guys are willing to work really hard for each other. The most rewarding thing for us as coaches is seeing that effort three weeks in a row.”

He added: “Will this put any pressure on us going back home? I don’t think pressure to win, for instance … it’s important for us to travel and recover well [to face] a very fit, tough Ulster team.

“It’ll obviously be nice building on the momentum, but this week is about balance between wellness and recovery.”

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